Salah Al-Din farmers fear extinction of rare Iraqi lemon as water scarcity and lack of support threaten production

SALAH AL-DIN — Farmers in the fertile areas surrounding the Samarra district of Salah Al-Din governorate are raising alarms about the future of the rare Iraqi lemon, which they fear may be at risk of extinction. Known for its unique flavor and often called the “jewel” of the local citrus basket, the Iraqi lemon is highly prized, with prices soaring. However, farmers warn that without government support and access to water, the future of this treasured fruit is uncertain.

“We’ve been growing Iraqi lemons here in Al-Mu’tasim [a subdistrict of Samarra] for many years, starting each season in September through November,” Firas Hamid, a lemon orchard owner, told 964media. “Its taste is unique, striking a rare balance between sweet and sour, unlike any other citrus [fruits]. The demand is high, and prices exceed 4,000 dinars per kilo (approximately $3 USD), but without proper support, it faces the danger of disappearing.”

Farmers are calling on the Iraqi government and Salah Al-Din officials to intervene, requesting subsidies for fertilizers and pesticides. Due to the lack of government assistance, many have had to rely on expensive black-market alternatives, which Hamid describes as “very expensive,” with farmers struggling against pests like whitefly, cottony mealybugs, and spiders. Additionally, wild boars have devastated local farmlands, and there are no concrete plans to address this threat.

Imported lemons from Turkey and Syria, sold at 2,000 dinars per kilogram, are far cheaper than the local variety, but the superior quality of the Iraqi lemon keeps demand high. However, recent droughts and water scarcity have forced many farmers to rely on well water, putting further pressure on production.

Hamid added that after the lemon season, farmers begin cultivating oranges, mandarins, and bitter oranges, with the season starting between December and January. Despite the challenges, farmers remain committed to preserving the rare Iraqi lemon, but they are urging the government to take swift action before this vital crop is lost.

Meanwhile, Iraq’s imports of Turkish lemons surged by 181% in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year, according to data from a Turkish exporters association. Between January and April, Iraq imported Turkish lemons valued at $33.4 million.